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module menu icon When to refer

As headaches are so common, many people will downplay their symptoms, so it’s important to be able to identify when someone needs a referral. Signs that something is not quite right include a headache that:

  • Is worsening and accompanied by a fever
  • Has a sudden onset and becomes severe very quickly
  • Is triggered by pressure changes such as sneezing or moving from standing to sitting, or exercising
  • Has changed significantly in nature since it began or has been present for a long time
  • Follows an accident or knock to the head
  • Is not getting better despite trying the usual things, including preventative measures
  • Is in someone with a compromised immune system, for example someone undergoing cancer treatment
  • Follows exposure to or withdrawal from a substance
  • Is accompanied by vomiting without an obvious cause; a painful red eye; personality changes; lockjaw; impaired consciousness; or other signs of neurological or cognitive problems, such as memory loss or numbness, slurred speech or confusion.
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